EDITORIAL METHOD

Four clues need one defensible connection.

A puzzle is useful when its surprise can be explained. The public clues invite a theory; a correct guess unlocks the connections and source links so you can examine that theory. This page explains the criteria behind that format without revealing any puzzle solution.

What a clue must support

A clue has a name, a short context and a specific connection to the answer. We look for a documented relationship or event. A broad similarity, a shared nationality or a name appearing somewhere on a page does not by itself explain a connection. The context should help you choose the relevant interpretation without giving away the answer.

Checking the source against the claim

The private editorial record keeps a source URL, publisher, access date and evidence note for each connection and hint. Before release, the wording is checked against that evidence. The question is whether the source supports the precise relationship being claimed, including the people, place and period involved. A link about the subject in general is not enough.

After a correct guess, the game shows the explanation, publisher and source link. Private evidence notes stay private. A source link lets you read the context for yourself; it does not mean the publisher endorses the game.

Checking ambiguity and names

Publication requires an approval record and a review of alternative answers. Each candidate should account for all four clues, rather than just the most recognisable one. If another plausible name fits, the wording or selection of clues needs another look. The answer pattern is an extra constraint, not a substitute for a sound connection.

The game normalises case and accents and accepts the aliases recorded for that puzzle. It does not automatically accept every nickname or partial name. Use the complete answer and displayed word lengths. If you think a valid spelling or equivalent name was rejected, include it in a correction report.

What is public and when

Only approved, released puzzles appear in the archive. New editions are scheduled for Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:00 UTC. The archive publishes the date, four clue names and contexts, and word lengths. It does not publish the answer, connections or hint text. Hints remain an explicit choice in the game; explanations and sources require a correct guess, including in practice.

Corrections worth reporting

Report a source that contradicts a clue, a wrong date or attribution, an inaccessible source, a misleading translation, a valid alternative that fits all four clues, or a rejected equivalent spelling. Include the puzzle date, the wording in question, your reasoning and a supporting link where possible. Avoid including cookie values or personal information.

A broken link calls for checking the evidence again; it does not by itself prove that the connection is false. A correction should address the precise issue while preserving a fair puzzle. Progress is attached to a puzzle revision, so a changed revision can create a separate round.

Send a correction to guyknowsballgame@gmail.com.